Meaning & Definition of word "Spectrum"
Spectrum
/ˈspɛktrəm/
noun:
- 1. a band of colors, as seen in a rainbow, produced by separation of the components of light by their different degrees of refraction according to wavelength.
- Example: The artist used a vibrant spectrum of colors to create a stunning mural.
- 2. a range of different positions, opinions, or qualities.
- Example: The political spectrum in the country includes a wide range of ideologies from liberal to conservative.
- 3. a continuous range of values or a scale.
- Example: The researchers conducted a study on the spectrum of mental health issues faced by young adults.
- 4. in physics, the distribution of energy emitted by a source or the range of light wavelengths.
- Example: The spectrum of the star was analyzed to determine its temperature and composition.
- 5. the range of frequencies of electromagnetic radiation.
- Example: The radio spectrum is regulated to prevent interference between different communication services.
Etymology
●Latin 'spectrum', meaning 'image' or ' apparition'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
light spectrum:
The range of different wavelengths of light.
political spectrum:
The range of political beliefs and opinions.
sound spectrum:
The range of frequencies of sound.
Related Words
spectroscopy:
The study of the interaction between light and matter to understand the spectrum.
spectrum analyzer:
An electronic device that measures the magnitude of an input signal versus frequency within the full frequency range of the instrument.
Slang Meanings of spectrum
Meaning: Wide range or variety.
● Example Sentence: Her interests span the entire spectrum, from knitting to quantum physics.
Meaning: Used to describe someone's behavior or personality as diverse or complex.
● Example Sentence: He's got a bit of a spectrum personality; he can be super chill one moment and then very intense the next.